Thames Freeport has announced a programme of global innovation partnerships aimed at supporting job creation, attracting investment, and advancing AI-driven growth in the UK’s innovation sector.
Thames Freeport, in partnership with L Marks, PUBLIC, MH&A, and Rainmaking, is launching new initiatives to support startups and tech firms focused on AI-powered solutions.
As an Industrial Strategy Zone, it aims to attract investment and highlight UK innovation.
A central part of the plan is the Thames Freeport Connectivity Lab, led by L Marks and Cambridge Management Consulting.
The Lab targets AI, 5G, and smart infrastructure for ports and logistics.
Powered by Verizon Business private 5G, the Lab will serve as a testbed for technologies to improve operations and boost competitiveness.
Developed in partnership with DP World London Gateway, Port of Tilbury, and Ford Motor Company Dagenham, the Lab will run a 10-week programme connecting startups with industry leaders, offering mentorship and opportunities to test their technologies in real environments.
The programme will focus on tracking & monitoring, maintenance & efficiency, and health, safety & security. A wildcard category will consider disruptive ideas with potential impact.
L Marks has also been appointed Thames Freeport’s strategic innovation delivery partner.
Stuart Rimmer, Interim CEO of Thames Freeport, said: “These collaborations with L Marks and Rainmaking underline our commitment to delivering real-world impact, creating jobs, supporting businesses, and building a future-ready economy where communities prosper and new industries thrive.”
Tom White, Director of Innovation at Thames Freeport, stated: “The Connectivity Lab and our wider partnerships give us the platform to mobilise new solutions at scale.
“Working alongside innovators, corporates and the public sector, we are building an ecosystem that delivers real impact for both businesses and communities. Together with technology leaders, investors and startups, we are seizing the opportunity to create a global hub of impact-led innovation, and the door is open to those ready to be a part of it.”
Last month, London Thames Hydrogen confirmed a £200 million ($270.9 million) private-sector commitment to build a next-generation hydrogen-from-waste facility on the Tilbury Tax Site at Thames Freeport.